In today’s crowded running shoe market, it’s rare to come across a brand that feels truly new. Over the past year, only a handful have caught our eye at Run Oregon. Now, UYN (short for Unleash Your Nature) has crossed our radar with their debut running shoe – the Alacrify.
About UYN
UYN was founded in 2018 by Trerè Innovation, a company with deep roots in performance apparel and sustainable design. If the name sounds familiar, it may be because they outfit more than 10 national ski teams worldwide. With the Alacrify, UYN takes that performance-first approach and brings it to running, pairing technical innovation with natural materials.
Developed in collaboration with the University of Verona, the shoe was designed to tackle uneven city streets while keeping the ride both stable and responsive. True to UYN’s mission, the build also reduces environmental impact – the upper uses natural eucalyptus fibers, and the insole is crafted from hemp.
Looks
The Alacrify is offered in two colorways: black/green, and a bold pink. And when we say pink, it’s not just an accent—it’s a full statement shoe. As someone who leans toward floral and bright gear, this is right up my alley, though I know it won’t be for everyone.
The black/green option keep things more traditional for those who prefer subtlety. I do wish there were a few more typical colorways, as I think these two may limit some people’s desire to take the plunge.
Design-wise, it doesn’t blend into the pack. I’ve already had people ask me about them mid-run. To me, it carries a little bit of a basketball-shoe vibe—polarizing to some, but undeniably unique.
Upper
Most running shoe uppers focus on overlays, padding, and lockdown. UYN went a different route: the Alacrify’s upper is essentially a knitted sock. The seamless design – a 100% eucalyptus-based upper – hugs the foot, minimizes irritation, and offers impressive breathability. Despite the stripped-down look, it holds the foot surprisingly well, offering that balance of comfort and security that’s tricky to nail.
The eyelets and laces are woven right into the upper and I wonder how that will last over time. Also, while the shoe does a really nice job at holding the foot without much tightening in the laces, it does have a bit of bite up top. It’s not unmanageable, but I am sure some won’t love that part.
Midsole
The midsole features a dual-density EVA setup, with softer Propulsyon Foam in the forefoot and firmer Freebound Foam in the heel. To add stability and responsiveness, UYN integrates its H.A.L.O. System (Heel Active Ligament Outerframe)—a supportive frame that keeps the foot moving on a neutral path.
This connects to the Power Chassis, a rigid platform built into the midsole that adds stiffness and snap. The combination delivers a ride that’s more structured and propulsive than the sock-like upper suggests, making it a versatile option for daily runs or longer efforts.
Outsole
Nature inspired the outsole design. The heel is shaped like a horse’s hoof for stability, while the forefoot mimics the ibex horn, adding traction and climbing efficiency. That’s a lot of animal connections. Built from durable TPU, it grips well without weighing the shoe down, making it suitable for varied terrain and unpredictable city streets. I found the grip to be in line with expectations – no issues here.
First Takeaway
With its sock-like upper, eco-minded build, and performance-focused midsole/outsole system, the UYN Alacrify is perhaps one of the most unique running shoes we have tried in a while. I think this shoe is gonna be a little polarizing for some runners, but there’s no denying it delivers a fresh spin.
It’s not going to look—or feel—like your standard trainer, and that’s the point. For runners wanting something stable, sustainable, and a little different, the Alacrify is worth keeping on the radar.